Shown a very warm welcome back into the spotlight, Wilson was introduced by director Wes Anderson as “my best friend,” and the audience erupted into applause. Added Anderson: “I’ve never made a movie without him. and I hope I never have to.”

It is Wilson’s first major appearance since being hospitalized in August after what police called a suicide attempt.

As the cast left the stage for the film’s presentation, Wilson was embraced by producer/writer Roman Coppola and then Huston, who shared her support by telling PEOPLE what a “cool guy” Wilson is.

“I have to say, I have a crush on Owen.” Huston, 56, said before Wilson (who also costarred with her in Anderson’s 2001 The Royal Tenenbaums) joined her for a few moments in the front row. He then exited the theater.

“Owen is doing very well and he is with us tonight, and I love him,” Wilson’s Darjeeling costar, Schwartzman, told PEOPLE on the red carpet.